Table of Contents
Homeowners with vinyl, metal, or composite siding should pressure wash their homes once a year. If you have wood siding, we recommend you pressure wash only when you have dirt or mildew buildup, unless you use very gentle pressure to wash away pollen or cobwebs on an annual basis.
Is power washing bad for vinyl siding?
A pressure washer can quickly ruin vinyl siding by cracking it with the high-pressure stream of water, so it’s necessary to know which pressure-level and nozzle to use. If you do use too much power, water can sneak behind the siding and soak the wood sheeting behind the vinyl, which could cause future damage.
How often should you have your home power washed?
While some homeowners may need to pressure wash every few months, a good rule of thumb to follow is to clean the exterior thoroughly at least once every year, with additional cleanings added as circumstances warrant them.
What is the best way to clean vinyl siding?
The best vinyl siding cleaning solution uses gentle products such as dish soap and water, or vinegar and water. Or, you can purchase a commercial vinyl siding cleaner to do the job. Apply the solution and clean the siding using a soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth, then rinse off with a spray hose.
Can you use Dawn in a pressure washer?
You can use dish soap in a pressure washer as long as you properly dilute it with water, but it may not be as effective at cleaning surfaces as other soaps or detergents meant specifically for pressure washers. If you are bummed that dish soap isn’t going to solve all of your outdoor cleaning woes, don’t be.
What is the best time of year to power wash your house?
In general, houses should be power washed at least once a year any time between March and November. As it gets later in a calendar year, you’ll want to make sure your home is taken care of before the freezing temperatures and winter weather arrive.
Should I power wash my house every year?
As a general rule, most experts recommend that you wash your home every 6 to 12 months (or one to two times a year). By power washing your home on a regular basis, you can protect it from the onset of mold or mildew and maintain its beautiful appearance.
Why you should not pressure wash your house?
Do not pressure wash any fixtures housing electricity, even those on the exterior of your home or in your yard. Though built to withstand a rainstorm, pressure washing can force water into cracks and crevice and cause damage and costly repairs.
How much does it cost to pressure wash a 2000 sq ft house?
The average cost to pressure wash a house ranges from $450 to $800, with most people spending around $625 for two hours of labor to pressure wash a 2,000 sq. ft. home, which includes the cost of all labor, equipment usage, and other materials.
What is the lifespan of vinyl siding?
To put it simply, vinyl siding lasts a long time. Depending on the quality of the materials and the experience of the contractor that installs it, it can last about 60 years. And with some minimal maintenance on occasion, your vinyl siding can last even longer than that.
Should I power wash my house?
Pressure washing frequency will depend on the type of siding you have and the condition of the siding. Generally, pressure washing is not necessary unless the siding has significant mildew or grime buildup. Homeowners with vinyl, metal, or composite siding should pressure wash their homes once a year.
Can you use vinegar in pressure washer?
Yes, you can use vinegar in a pressure washer. Using vinegar will not harm or damage your expensive equipment. Vinegar is an effective cleaner for removing dirt, mildew, and other debris. You can dilute the white vinegar with water, but you need to be cautious when mixing vinegar with other cleaners.
Do pressure washers need special soap?
Pressure washers are a bit finicky in that they require special soaps and detergents. Specific cleaners are designed for the specific pressures and velocities of specific appliances. So, when looking for a pressure washer soap or detergent, make sure it’s one designed specifically for pressure washers.
What is the average price to pressure wash a house?
How Do You Price a Power Washing Job? Power washing typically costs between $183 to $380 in the U.S., with the national average being $281, according to Home Advisor. Power washing houses usually costs between $220 to $380, a driveway costs $130 to $220 and a deck or patio costs $250 to $420.
Is there a difference between pressure washing and power washing?
The main difference with power washing vs. pressure washing is the heat. The jet wash in a power washing machine uses heated water, whereas the water in a pressure washer is not heated. The heated water makes it easier to clean surfaces — just as it does when doing dishes or washing your hands.
How long does it take to power wash a house?
It’ll take anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours to power wash a home, depending on how accessible and dirty the home is.
How much does it cost to pressure wash a 1500 square foot house?
Pressure washing is the most conventional method for cleaning siding. A 1,500 square foot house takes approximately two to three hours, costing $300 to $450. Pressure washing the siding of a house will be around $0.30 to $0.40 per square foot.
Is Power Washing your house bad?
The power of pressure washing can result in holes in your siding, breaking off vinyl panels, and more. When you’re using a pressure washer, you’re likely shooting water up toward the top of your house. Rotting can also occur if water seeps behind the panels, which can be highly damaging to wood exterior.
How long does pressure washing last?
Most persons use it for around 50 hours each year. That means that a well-maintained pressure washer should last at least 10 years.
Are pressure washers worth it?
A pressure washer can greatly increase your ability to maintain and clean your property and equipment giving it greater value. If your time is valuable, a pressure washer could be a good investment, but if you get the wrong machine, you will be frustrated and you could waste a lot of time and money.
What should you not use a pressure washer?
Surfaces you should not try to power or pressure wash are: Laminar sandstone – You’ll simply wash it away, or wash grooves in it. It’s too soft of a material to power or pressure wash. Anything painted – While painted items can be washed, it usually takes a pro to do it without destroying the paint.
